Tumor-host cell interaction in the microenvironment: new target points for treatment?

Abstract

Primary brain tumors and metastases in the central nervous system (CNS) are characterized by their unique microenvironment, which interacts with neuronal structures and influences structural and adaptive immunity. How significant are various tumor-host interactions from aprognostic and therapeutic perspective? A literature search was carried out for relevant articles on the topic: microenvironment glioblastoma or metastasis through PubMed and Medline. Modern high-throughput methods, such as spatial and single-cell resolution molecular characterization of tumors and their microenvironment enable adetailed mapping of changes and adaptation of individual cells within the microenvironment of tumors; however, treatment approaches based on altered tumor-host cell interactions, such as immune modeling, cell-based treatment methods or checkpoint inhibition have so far not shown any significant advantages for survival. Adeeper understanding of the complex immune landscape and the microenvironment of metastases of the CNS and intracerebral tumors is essential to optimize future treatment strategies.